Print

Crispy Southern Cheddar Cheese Straws

A pile of golden, flaky, twisted cheese straws recipe baked until crispy and golden brown.

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make these classic, crispy Southern Cheddar Cheese Straws from scratch. They are a flavorful, buttery appetizer perfect for parties or snacks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
  • 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1 tablespoon cold water

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, cayenne pepper, and paprika.
  2. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until evenly distributed.
  4. In a small bowl, mix the beaten egg and cold water. Add this mixture to the flour mixture and mix until a stiff dough forms. Do not overmix.
  5. Divide the dough in half. On a lightly floured surface, roll each half into a rectangle about 1/8 inch thick.
  6. Cut the dough into strips about 1/2 inch wide and 5 inches long. You can twist each strip once or twice for a classic look.
  7. Place the strips on baking sheets lined with parchment paper.
  8. Bake in a preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius) for 10 to 14 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.
  9. Transfer the cheese straws to a wire rack to cool completely. They will crisp up as they cool.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, use a mix of sharp and medium cheddar cheese.
  • If you prefer a quicker version, use one sheet of store-bought puff pastry, top with shredded cheese and spices, fold, and cut into strips before baking.
  • These homemade cheese straws freeze well before baking; place frozen strips directly onto a baking sheet and add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Nutrition